Written Answers Friday 8 September 2006

Scottish Executive

Airports

Rosie Kane (Glasgow) (SSP): To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has sought meetings with UK ministers to convey its concerns regarding the United States of America’s use of Scottish airfields in its transportation of munitions supplies to Israel.

Tavish Scott: The Scottish Executive is in regular contact with the UK Government on a wide range of issues, including the USA’s use of Scottish airfields in its transportation of munitions supplies to Israel.

Renewable Energy

Christine May (Central Fife) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive when it will make an announcement on the proposal to construct a wind-powered generating station at Abercairny, near Crieff.

Allan Wilson: I can announce that the Scottish ministers have withheld consent for this proposal in terms of Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.

  This announcement follows a comprehensive consultation process which involved environmental groups, government bodies and members of the public. In view of the decision by Perth and Kinross council to object to the application, the matter was referred to Public Local Inquiry. The reporter concluded that the proposed development would have significant adverse impacts on the local environment which could not properly be addressed and recommended that consent should not be granted. I have concluded after careful consideration to accept the reporter’s recommendations.